Loves of My Life: Abbie Roden Sandbach

      The most captivating interviews are often deeply personal. In "Loves of My Life," we explore the individual behind their work, posing the pivotal questions we all yearn to ask—their favorite restaurants and romantic hideaways, the contents of their Instagram Saved folder, their most treasured piece of jewelry, and what they keep at the bottom of their handbag. Essentially, these reveal the true loves of their life. Next, we have Abbie Roden Sandbach, a businesswoman and the founder of Amie wine, the West London pizzeria Weezie's, and the social and content agency Roden. They say that home is where the heart is, and for Abbie Roden Sandbach, who hails from Kentucky but now lives in London, it can be found tucked away in the verdant streets of Belgravia Village. Here, in this serene part of Central London, lies the Amie wine studio, the stylish hub for the beverage brand she co-founded amid the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as her latest venture, Weezie’s—a delightful eatery that blends trattoria charm with Southern Belle flair. Given how dear these pursuits are to her, we thought it fitting to dig deeper into the life of this multifaceted entrepreneur to discover where she finds inspiration, which city corners she escapes to, and the dishes to order to impress (she is a hospitality expert, after all). In essence, these reflect the loves of her life…

      What is the top restaurant you must visit in the world, and what would you order? This is such a tough question, but I honestly adore The Barbary in Neal’s Yard (London) so much. There’s something incredibly special about it: the music, the ambiance, the counter seating where you can watch the chefs at work. You must try the Jerusalem bagel, naan, all the dips, the chicken, and the cauliflower - they're all outstanding. Do you have a secret spot for date nights? The cozy local Italian, Pentolina, in our neighborhood is simply delightful. It’s family-owned, warm, and always bustling with locals! You can't go wrong for a romantic evening. I also really enjoy Six Portland Road; it's such a hidden treasure in Holland Park. Coffee, tea, wine, or cocktails—what's your ultimate choice? It has to be coffee first! The morning ritual of enjoying a cup is unbeatable. Wine takes second place, followed by a spicy mezcal margarita in third, and a Negroni in fourth. I also have a soft spot for a good bourbon on the rocks. What comfort food do you turn to? In Kentucky, it’s fried chicken. In London, it’s a comforting pasta or ramen cooked at home. What is your favorite shop in London? Supermarket of Dreams in Holland Park. They carry all the finest food and drink brands, and I love visiting for a weekend treat. Which city inspires you the most? I spent five years in NYC, and each return visit feels fresh and inspiring. There’s so much creativity, especially now that I have hospitality ventures—I love observing the local scene! Amsterdam is also a fun place for inspiration. Marrakech provides an incredible amount of inspiration as well—its colors, textures, and light are breathtaking, and I absolutely adore it. What's one essential item you pack for vacations? A camera (or two or three!). If you could only vacation in one place for the rest of your life, where would it be? Morocco, without a doubt. Morocco has it all—beaches, mountains, cities, and rural areas. The culture is amazing, and it amazes me that you can take a three-hour flight and find yourself in an entirely different world! What’s your go-to spot to take visiting friends? Amie wine studio, and now Weezie’s as well—of course!

      If you could choose just one fashion brand to wear for your entire life, what would it be and why? With Nothing Underneath. My friend Pip [Durell] is the founder, and the quality of WNU items is fantastic—they have everything you could need, so no other shopping is necessary! I once worked at the American heritage boot company Frye. I have so many wonderful Frye boots that I will cherish forever. They’re all iconic and will only improve over time. What clothing item could you never part with? Probably a leather bomber jacket that belonged to my grandfather. Or my Frye cowboy boots as well. Do you have a piece of jewelry that holds special significance? Yes, a ring that was a high school graduation gift to my mom from her parents (my grandparents in Kentucky). It’s a gold rose with a tiny diamond at its center, and I cherish it. Is there something in your home you feel particularly attached to? Indeed, many objects and pieces of art come with rich stories. Some furniture also originates from my grandmother’s Kentucky house. What would we commonly find at the